Subaru Recall Blues

Auto manufacturers have been issuing more and more recalls over the past few years. The regularity of recall notices may be a sign that a specific vehicle may have some issues with safety or reliablilty. Subaru has certainly had more recalls for the 2010 year model than in the past.

The latest in recalls for Subaru is the Outback and Legacy models, being recalled due to faulty wiring behind the steering wheel; the wires were found to be at risk of cracking and breaking, which could interfere with the normal functioning of the steering wheel. If this happens, some vehicle functions with controls on the steering wheel—such as the horn, cruise and radio controls, paddle shifters, and even the driver's airbag, including problems with deployment of the air bag—could fail.

Approximately 74,000 Outback and Legacy models are thought to be affected by the faulty steering wheel wiring issue, models that were assembled between February 16, 2009 and April 12, 2010. Consumers who own one of the affected vehicles are asked to contact their local Subaru dealer; they will then be checked to see if they have the faulty steering roll connector; all Subaru Legacy and Outback models found to have the problem will be fixed at no cost. For more details on this latest recall contact NHTSA on 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or visit Safecar.gov

Earlier this year, Subaru recalled 30,000 Outback Legacy models due to a faulty CVT cooling hose. Other 2010 Subaru models were recalled due to steering grease issue—a particular type of grease was used on the steering roll connector in some 2010 Legacy and Outback models which prompted the automaker to recallvehicles.

In March of 2010, Subaru notified NHTSA about a defect in certain 2010 Tribeca passenger cars that were manufactured from September 4th 2009 through March 8th of 2010. The door latch cables, which are located inside the vehicle's driver and front passenger doors, were not positioned properly during production, resulting in the cable being at high risk to catch in the door glass regulator when the window is being rolled up, which couldcause an unexpected unlatching and openingof the door. This could result in an occupant being ejected from the car, and/or driver distraction which could lead to a crash.